REPTILE PREFERRED BODY TEMPERATURE

All reptiles have a preferred body temperature (PBT) and their enclosure should provide both basking and cooler areas that have a temperature range of 2-30C either side of this PBT.

Species

PBT (0C)

Scientific Name

Childrens Python

30 - 33

Anatresia childreni

Coastal Carpet Python

30 - 32
Morelia spilota variegata

Diamond Python

29 - 30

Morelia spilota spilota

Bearded Dragon

35 - 39

Pogona sp.

Eastern Snake-Necked Turtle

(long neck)

26

Chelodina longicollis

Murray River Turtle

(short neck)

26

Emydura macquarii

Blue Tongue Lizard

28 - 32

Tiliqua Scincoides

·        Use a 40-75 watt blue light globe or infrared heatlamps in, or over, one end of the enclosure.

·        A cool area, preferably at the far end away from the basking spot, should be provided to allow a temperature range within the enclosure. A lesser alternative is to have a sheltered area made from rocks and hollow logs. 

·        The use of heat rocks can cause skin burns and is not recommended.

·        Heat mats may also cause skin burns and should be used with caution.

·        A separate source of ultraviolet (UV) light, either through exposure to unfiltered, natural sunlight, or an artificial UV light will help prevent Vitamin D deficiency, and skin and bone disorders. Remember to replace the light regularly (every 3-6 months) as it will lose strength, even though the light still works.

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